SRVUSD Teacher to Study in Finland on Fulbright Award
Cathy McSweeney  |  Sept. 8, 2023 

Butler-Doran submitted her research project entitled “Global Citizens, Global Action: Students Taking Climate Action Across Borders” to Fulbright and was thrilled to be awarded a spot in their prestigious Teacher Exchange Program. She will spend 5 months affiliated with the University of Eastern Finland in Jonensen researching best practices for teaching climate change and action as well as designing curriculum that will connect learners from SRVUSD and Finland to examine local effects of climate change, report to each other, and determine possible solutions and action plans. “I am absolutely thrilled about this amazing opportunity! I hope to learn how Finland teaches their students and establish connections for us that will hopefully last for years to come. I’m still pinching myself!,” shared Teresa

Taking a class designed by the Department of State and the International Research Exchanges Board is what initially sparked Butler-Doran’s interest in global competence. It prompted her awareness of the interconnectedness of the world and the need for students to be prepared to work across borders. “I realized that there is very little global competency being taught within our district. I would like to change that and bring this content to our schools. I believe it is vital to bring global competence to the forefront of our teaching programs,” wrote Butler-Doran in her letter requesting a semester leave from her current teaching position.

Fulbright Program participants are chosen for their academic merit and leadership potential. According to a press release from the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, “Fulbright alumni include 62 Nobel Prize laureates, 89 Pulitzer Prize recipients, 78 MacArthur Fellows, and 41 who have served as a head of state or government”. 

Butler-Doran has created a Facebook page to document her Fulbright Exchange to Finland, Teacher Teresa Gone Global. We will be cheering her on as she embarks on this amazing experience. SRVUSD is so fortunate to have capable, passionate, creative educators like Teresa Butler-Doran, who not only encourage students to follow their dreams but show them how by living their own. Way to go, Teresa!